How to Support Stepp’s & Other Local Farms in 2026
As the year winds down, December is the perfect time to think about how we can support our communities — including the local farms that feed us. In 2026, choosing to support family-run farms like ours helps protect local agriculture, strengthens the economy, and preserves traditions that make Western North Carolina special.
1. Visit the Farm
One of the most meaningful ways to support a local farm is simply to show up. At Stepp’s, each visit directly sustains our family operation and helps us continue offering the experiences you love. Even outside of peak seasons, checking our website and social media for updates, seasonal announcements, or special events helps you stay connected. Planning a fall apple-picking day or a spring tulip visit not only supports the farm financially but also keeps these traditions alive for future generations.
2. Buy Local
Whether you’re preparing a meal, filling gift baskets, or looking for something homemade and meaningful, choosing local produce and farm-made goods makes a big difference. Apples, cider, honey, jams, baked goods, and other local treats bring authentic flavor to your celebrations. By purchasing directly from farms like ours, you help sustain agricultural families and keep regional food traditions strong. Even sharing those gifts with loved ones becomes a way to spread awareness and appreciation for local growers.
3. Attend Seasonal Events
Agritourism plays a major role in helping farms stay resilient, and participating in seasonal activities is a fun way to show support. Our u-pick options, corn maze, wagon rides, and more in the fall and our u-pick tulips in the spring help us diversify our income and continue improving our farm for visitors. Bringing friends, organizing group outings, or making an annual family trip turns these moments into lasting traditions that help our community flourish.
4. Spread the Word
Word-of-mouth support is incredibly powerful for small farms. Sharing your experiences at Stepp’s—whether through social media posts, photos, recommendations, or simple conversations—helps us reach new visitors who may not have discovered the farm otherwise. Telling your friends about your favorite apple variety, posting pictures from the tulip fields, or encouraging coworkers to plan a fall weekend trip can make a significant impact.
5. Stay Engaged All Year
Local farms are always growing and changing, and staying connected helps you be part of that journey. Signing up for our email newsletter, following us on social media, or checking our website regularly ensures you’re the first to know about blooming tulips, apple varieties ready for picking, seasonal treats, or special events. Even though our farm isn’t open to visitors year-round, we’re always working behind the scenes, and staying engaged helps support our efforts and keeps local agriculture thriving.
A Simple Choice with Big Impact
Supporting Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard — and other regional farms — is one of the easiest ways to invest in sustainability, community, and delicious local food. As we head into 2026, consider making local agriculture part of your holiday plans and year-round habits.